Chat to a clinician
Find a centre
Emergency assistance
Donate now
Whether you’re finishing school, changing direction or just wanting to learn something new, there are plenty of flexible study options to choose from. We’ve unpacked everything from short courses to university pathways so you can find the right fit and take the next step with confidence.
Start with a plan
Before you dive into what you’d like to study, it’s important to have a rough career plan in mind so you can feel confident about where your study might take you. If you’re just finishing up school and not sure where to start, see our simple guide on your options after school.
You can start exploring where your study might lead by:
- Thinking about any work experience you’ve had so far – what were you good at and what did you enjoy?
- Talking to people who have jobs that interest you.
- Speaking with family, Elders or mentors for their perspectives on what study options might suit you and your values.
- Completing career quizzes.
- Researching what skills are in demand.
- Browsing job ads to give you a feel for the qualifications and experience employers are looking for.
It's also worth thinking about how you’d like to learn, and whether you’d prefer:
- Face-to-face classes, online study or a mix of both
- Full-time or part-time study, and whether you plan to work at the same time
- Short and focussed, or a longer course
- Hands-on or theory-based learning
- More teacher/trainer guidance, or independent study.
Have a think about how you might fund your study too. Check out our guide which covers your finance options.
When your study choice fits with your life and how you learn, you’re more likely to see it through. Let’s explore the study and training options that could help you take that next step.
Non-accredited training
Non-accredited training (also called pre-accredited or informal training) won’t get you a formal qualification but can be a great way to build specific knowledge and skills in a short space of time. There are courses available in things like communication skills, creative arts, resume writing or using specific software.
You won’t be able to get a loan to pay for these courses, but they are often low cost (or free), and many provide a certificate of attendance or completion which can be added to your resume to show your commitment to learning new skills. They can also be a good way to explore an interest area or career without too much of a commitment.
To find out what’s available, you can look online or contact:
- Community education providers
- Neighbourhood houses
- Youth services or hubs
- Libraries
- Technical and Further Education (TAFE) providers
- Online learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy or LinkedIn Learning. These offer access to a variety of courses for a monthly subscription fee.
Accredited training
Accredited training is nationally recognised and can lead to formal qualifications like certificates, diplomas and degrees. Some shorter courses, like First Aid and Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA), are also accredited. This type of training is delivered by approved education providers and follows set standards, so you can build on your qualifications over time.
The Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF) outlines the levels of accredited training in Australia, and what is required at each level. It can help you figure out where you can start and what you can work towards, but you’ll need to check each course’s specific entry requirements to be sure.
If you’re considering a course that leads to a recognised qualification, there are lots of flexible ways to learn and build your skills.
Vocational Education and Training (VET)
Vocational education and training (VET) courses focus on practical skills for specific jobs and industries like trades, office work, hospitality and technology. They’re a great option if you enjoy learning in a hands-on environment.
You can complete nationally recognised certificates, diplomas and short courses through Registered Training Organisations (RTOs). These courses are competency-based, which means you’re assessed on your ability to do specific tasks. Each qualification has the same set of competencies, no matter which RTO you chose to study through.
VET Course providers
The widest range of VET courses are available through TAFEs and private providers like Open Colleges, but some universities now offer them too. Courses can be completed in person, online, or a mix of both. Depending on your course, you may also complete simulated learning or practical placements to build real-world experience.
Most courses have scheduled classes, either in person or online, but some self-paced options are available. Studying through these institutions also means you have access to student support services like tutoring, career advice and wellbeing support while you complete your training.
Some courses are fully subsidised under the Free TAFE initiative. Free TAFE courses are chosen to meet skills shortages and can be a good indication of how much demand is out there for particular jobs.
You can explore different qualifications and providers using the training.com.au course search.
Apprenticeships and traineeships
Apprenticeships and traineeships combine paid work with structured training, so you can get your VET qualification while earning an income in over 500 industries. They can be full-time, part-time or school-based, and there are no formal entry requirements.
To get started, you’ll need to find an employer who agrees to train you while you complete your course through an RTO. The RTO is responsible for assessing your skills and progress, while the employer provides hands-on training and supports your learning in the workplace. You will spend most of your time working with your employer but may be required to attend your RTO occasionally.
You can find apprenticeship and traineeship opportunities advertised on job boards (e.g. SEEK, Indeed), through Group Training Organisations (below), via your Employment Services Provider if you have one, or by contacting employers directly.
Apprenticeships usually focus on skilled trades like:
- Carpentry
- Electrical
- Cooking
- Automotive
- Plumbing
- Hairdressing
- Bricklaying
- Painting
- Butchery
- Gardening
Traineeships are often shorter and cover service and business-related industries like:
- Real estate
- Laboratory technology
- Travel and tourism
- Early childhood education
- Aged care
- Business administration
- Retail
- Information technology
- Hospitality and customer service
Group Training Organisations (GTOs) directly employ apprentices and trainees, then place them with host employers to gain hands-on experience. This means you don’t have to find an employer on your own, and if work slows down with one host they can help place you somewhere else.
GTOs also assist you throughout your training – checking in, supplying safety gear, helping with paperwork and providing support if any issues come up.
You can find details of your nearest GTO in the Group Training Organisation Directory.
The Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
RPL is a way to get formal credit for skills you already have.
If you’ve gained the skills needed for a particular VET qualification while working, volunteering or through life experience, you might be able to get the qualification without completing the whole course.
To apply, you will need to contact an RTO and provide evidence of your skills through things like samples, photos, references or practical demonstrations. If you meet all the requirements, you’ll get the qualification straight away. If not, you’ll only need to complete the parts you’re missing.
For anyone with some experience under their belt, it’s worth contacting an RTO directly to find out how the process works and what proof you would need to provide.
Foundation programs
Foundation programs (also called bridging or tertiary preparation programs) can prepare you for a university course if you didn’t finish Year 12, didn’t get the ATAR you needed, or have been out of study for a while.
These courses build your skills and confidence in areas like academic writing, maths, research or science, depending on what you plan to study. They’re usually offered by universities or TAFEs and can run full-time, part-time or online, making them a flexible option if you’re working or have other commitments.
Completing a foundation course can lead directly into a degree or diploma program, often with guaranteed entry if you pass.
TAFE providers
Some TAFEs offer higher education qualifications in areas like engineering, business, early childhood education and design.
These courses are designed to be practical and industry-focused, often with smaller class sizes and more hands-on learning compared to traditional university settings.
Entry requirements vary by course, and may include Year 12 completion, relevant work experience, or previous VET study.
Universities
Studying at university usually involves a mix of lectures, group-based learning and independent study. Depending on your course, you might also do placements or labs.
Most courses are very flexible and can be studied part-time or full time, online or on campus (or a mixture of both). You can also switch to another course if you find your current one isn’t the right fit.
University campuses can be large and diverse, offering access to clubs, events, and facilities like gyms and pools. Both online and campus students also have access to a range of support services, like academic help, disability support, wellbeing services, mentoring programs and career advice.
Each qualification has its own entry requirements. You can find these on the course website or by booking an appointment with a student adviser from the university. Depending on the course, you could demonstrate that you meet these requirements through foundation/bridging courses, ATAR scores, work experience, creative portfolios/auditions or previous VET study.
Explore thousands of undergraduate course options by visiting the Course Seeker search tool.
If you’re interested in a creative career, formal qualifications aren’t always required to get started in the industry.
Many roles in fields like photography, graphic design, film, writing and music focus more on your skills, portfolio or performance than your academic background.
You can build these skills through formal study, or by getting involved in things like volunteering, freelancing, community projects or personal creative projects. Participating in exhibitions or competitions can also help build experience and showcase your abilities.
Internships are short-term placements that give you a taste of what it is like to work in a particular industry. They can be part of a course, or a way for recent graduates or career changers to get started in a new field.
Internships can be paid or unpaid, so it’s important to understand your rights and make sure the experience is meaningful and not just free labour.
Internships can be organised through your course provider, by applying directly through job boards (e.g. SEEK, Indeed), through paid placement services or by contacting the organisation yourself.
Cadetships are a bit like apprenticeships, but they’re usually aimed at university students who are completing qualifications in areas like journalism, business, IT or engineering. These programs allow you to gain experience and get paid while you study and often include a job guarantee when you graduate.
To learn more, search for cadetships online or check out this list of some larger cadetship programs available in Australia.
The Australian Defence Force (ADF) offers structured training and qualifications while you work. You can apply directly after Year 12 and complete fully funded training across a range of careers like engineering, IT, healthcare and logistics.
You will need to pass physical and psychological testing and commit to a service contract, so it’s important to understand what’s involved before applying. If you’re not sure if you’d like to commit, the ADF 12-month Gap Year program lets you explore the different roles available while getting paid.
There’s no one-size-fits all path when it comes to study and training, and it’s ok not to know exactly where you want to go, or to change your mind along the way.
The most important thing is to find an option that suits your life, feels meaningful, and helps you take steps towards your goals. Take your time, explore what feels right for you and know that your path can change and grow as you do.
Get support with headspace Work & Study
If you're aged 15 – 25, headspace can help you navigate your study options and develop the skills and confidence to reach your work or study goals.
headspace Work & Study programs are free to access online or in-person at over 50 of our headspace centres.
The headspace Content Reference Group oversee and approve clinical resources made available on this website.
Last reviewed September 2025.
Get professional support
If you feel you need help there are a range of ways we can support you.